.::BATMAN-IN-COMICS -- Review of "BATMAN" #669 by Bill Ramey::.

FROM DC COMICS: "Concluding a 3-part story by Grant Morrison and J.H. Williams III! Batman's reunion with the Club of Heroes turns into a deathtrap as Robin and the Squire are kidnapped by the Black Glove! And with the Club of Villains lurking in the shadows, can good possibly triumph?"

When I first read about this “Batmen Of All Nations” storyline in BATMAN, I was like “WTF? ‘Batmen of all nations?’” It seemed cheesy and out of character for Batman to meet up with a group of international versions of himself on a Caribbean island. I don’t particularly like Batman stories that take place outside of Gotham and I didn’t figure I’d enjoy reading about him mixing it up with a bunch of washed-up Batman wannabes.

However, after reading this 3-issue story arc written by Grant Morrison with art by J.H. Williams III, I was pleasantly surprised. Goofy and ridiculous? At times, yes. Silver Age-ish? There were definitely moments of it. Yet, Morrison cranked out a tale that mixes humor, the absurd, satire, and unconscionable brutality as only Morrison could.

So what about this allusion to the Silver Age that I made? Well, the whole storyline of “Batmen of all Nations,” their just-as-ludicrous villains, and ridiculous deathtraps is what I’m talking about here. So, is Morrison paying homage to that era of comic book history? Or is he making fun of it? A little of both I would say. To me, Morrison was saying, “Here’s what was cool about the Silver Age, but I’m glad it’s gone and here is why.” I was reminded of WATCHMEN, in a Batman sort of way.

Finally, I can not say enough about the very excellent artwork by J.H. Williams III. Williams mixes a variety of styles and looks that succeeds in capturing the tone of the story. Whether it is flashbacks in which he incorporates that paneled, granulated look of the Silver Age or a big, contemporary-looking splash page, Williams’ work here is tremendous.

This is a story that you’ve got to pick up and add to your collection once the inevitable trade paperback is released. I know I am.